Another link is found missing — and this time it’s all in the genes

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Chimpanzees do not have the newly discovered gene, nor do any other apesMartin Harvey/Getty Images

Mike Wade

Last updated at 12:01AM, November 15 2012

Scientists have identified a new gene that helps to explain why humans evolved
from apes and began to use tools and language.

The discovery of miR-941 was the fruit of a six-month project between
researchers in Britain, Germany and China. Taking samples from 11 animal
species, including chimpanzees, gorillas and macaques, as well as genetic
material from Denisova hominin, a relation of modern humankind, the team was
seeking evidence of genes that had changed between species, helping to
account for different characteristics.

There was “a real sense of elation” when a new and distinctive material was
identified, said Dr Martin